Doorbell communication systems and methods

ABSTRACT

Doorbell systems can include a doorbell having a speaker and a microphone. Doorbell systems can receive a custom message from a user. Doorbell systems can thereby detect an indication of a presence of a visitor, and then in response to detecting the indication of the presence of the visitor, doorbell systems can emit the custom message with the speaker.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/684,302; filed Apr.10, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS. Theentire contents of patent application Ser. No. 14/684,302 areincorporated by reference herein.

This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/664,345; filed Mar.20, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS. Theentire contents of patent application Ser. No. 14/664,345 areincorporated by reference herein.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 62/127,660; filed Mar. 3, 2015; and entitled DOORBELLCOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS. The entire contents of PatentApplication No. 62/127,660 are incorporated by reference herein.

This application claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376; filed Feb.3, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS. Theentire contents of patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376 areincorporated by reference herein.

U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376 is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.14/589,830; filed Jan. 5, 2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATIONSYSTEMS AND METHODS. The entire contents of patent application Ser. No.14/589,830 are incorporated by reference herein.

U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/589,830 is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.14/502,601; filed Sep. 30, 2014; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATIONSYSTEMS AND METHODS. The entire contents of patent application Ser. No.14/502,601 are incorporated by reference herein.

U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/502,601 is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.14/492,809; filed Sep. 22, 2014; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATIONSYSTEMS AND METHODS; which claims the benefit of and is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.14/275,811; filed May 12, 2014; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATIONSYSTEMS AND METHODS (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,872,915); which claims thebenefit of and is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Nonprovisional patentapplication Ser. No. 14/142,839; filed Dec. 28, 2013; and entitledDOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS (now U.S. Pat. No.8,842,180); which claims the benefit of and is a continuation-in-part ofU.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/099,888; filed Dec.6, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS (nowU.S. Pat. No. 8,823,795); which claims the benefit of and is acontinuation of U.S. Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No.14/098,772; filed Dec. 6, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATIONSYSTEMS AND METHODS (now U.S. Pat. No. 8,780,201); which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/872,439; filedAug. 30, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS;and also claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.61/859,070; filed Jul. 26, 2013; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATIONSYSTEMS AND METHODS. The entire contents of patent application Ser. No.14/492,809; U.S. Pat. No. 8,872,915; U.S. Pat. No. 8,842,180; U.S. Pat.No. 8,823,795; U.S. Pat. No. 8,780,201; Patent Application No.61/872,439; and Patent Application No. 61/859,070 are incorporated byreference herein.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated hereinby reference: International Application No. PCT/US14/53506; filed Aug.29, 2014 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office; and entitledDOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated hereinby reference: International Application No. PCT/US14/47622; filed Jul.22, 2014 with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office; and entitledDOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to doorbells. Certainembodiments relate to communication between a person near a doorbell anda person in another location.

2. Description of Related Art

Homes, offices, and other buildings sometimes include communication andsurveillance systems to enable friendly visitors to summon occupants ofthe buildings and to deter unwanted visitors. Communication andsurveillance systems can include video cameras and doorbells.

Doorbells can enable a person located outside of an entry point, such asa door, to alert a person inside of an entry point that someone outsidewould like to talk to someone inside. Doorbells sometimes include abutton located near a door, such as a front door, side door, or backdoor of a home, office, dwelling, warehouse, building, or structure.Doorbells are sometimes used near a gate or some other entrance to apartially enclosed area. Pushing the doorbell sometimes causes a chimeor other alerting sound to be emitted. In some cases, this alertingsound can typically be heard within a short distance from the entrypoint or sound source. For example, a homeowner located remotely fromher home likely would not be able to hear the alerting sound, and thus,would not be aware that someone is ringing her doorbell. Thus, there isa need for devices and methods to alert remotely located individualsthat someone seeks the attention of the homeowner, tenant, buildingguardian, or steward.

SUMMARY

This disclosure includes a method for emitting a custom message with adoorbell system, wherein the doorbell system comprises a doorbell havinga speaker. The may method comprise: receiving a custom message with thedoorbell system; and detecting, by the doorbell, an indication of apresence of a visitor, and then in response to detecting the indicationof the presence of the visitor, emitting the custom message with thespeaker.

The visitor may be a predetermined visitor and the method may furthercomprise assigning, by the doorbell system, the custom message to thepredetermined visitor.

Methods may include determining, by the doorbell system, that thevisitor is a predetermined visitor type, and selecting the custommessage from a first message and a second message in response todetermining that the visitor is the predetermined visitor type. As well,methods may include downloading the custom message from a smart phonethat is communicatively coupled to the doorbell system.

The doorbell system may further comprise a remote computing device, andmethods may further comprise recording the custom message with theremote computing device.

The doorbell may further comprise a microphone and a button, and methodsmay further comprise receiving an indication of a button press of thebutton, and then in response to receiving the button press, recordingthe custom message with the microphone.

The doorbell system may be operated by a homeowner and the visitor maybe included on a contact list of the homeowner, and wherein the custommessage may comprise a name of the visitor.

The doorbell may comprise a microphone, and wherein the custom messagemay comprise a question. Methods may further comprise receiving, by themicrophone, an audible response to the question as spoken by thevisitor.

Methods may further comprise determining, by the doorbell system,whether the audible response spoken by the visitor comprises a firstmeaning or a second meaning that is different from the first meaning; inresponse to determining that the audible response spoken by the visitorcomprises the first meaning, emitting a first response message with thespeaker; and in response to determining that the audible response spokenby the visitor comprises the second meaning, emitting a second responsemessage with the speaker, wherein the second response message isdifferent from the first response message.

The visitor may comprise a criminal, and the custom message may comprisea warning message. Methods may further comprise initiating, by thedoorbell system, a communication session with a law enforcement agency.

Methods may include initiating, by the doorbell system, a communicationsession with a remote computing device of the visitor, wherein thecommunication session comprises a written message that substantiallymatches a content of the custom message.

The disclosure also includes a method for emitting a custom message witha doorbell system, wherein the doorbell system comprises a doorbellhaving a speaker. The method may comprise detecting, by the doorbell, anindication of a presence of a visitor; and determining, by the doorbellsystem, an occurrence of a predetermined condition and then in responseto detecting the indication of the presence of the visitor anddetermining the occurrence of the predetermined condition, emitting thecustom message with the speaker. Methods may also include recording thecustom message with the doorbell system.

The custom message may be a first custom message, and the doorbell maybe attached to a building that is occupied by a resident. As well,determining, by the doorbell system, the occurrence of the predeterminedcondition may comprise determining whether the resident is locatedwithin the building or whether the resident is not located within thebuilding. Methods may further comprise recording a second custom messagewith the doorbell system, wherein the second custom message is differentfrom the first custom message; in response to both detecting theindication of the presence of the visitor and determining the residentis present within the building, emitting the first custom message withthe speaker; and in response to both detecting the indication of thepresence of the visitor and determining the resident is not presentwithin the building, emitting the second custom message with thespeaker.

The doorbell system may further comprise a remote computing device.Methods may further include recording the custom message with the remotecomputing device. The doorbell may comprise a microphone, and methodsmay further comprise recording the custom message with the microphone.

The doorbell may further comprise a button. As well, methods may furthercomprise receiving an indication of a first button press of the button,and then in response to receiving the first button press, recording thecustom message with the doorbell system and thereby storing the custommessage within memory of the doorbell system; and receiving anindication of a second button press of the button, and then in responseto receiving the second button press, erasing the custom message fromthe memory of the doorbell system.

The predetermined condition may comprise at least one of a predeterminedtimeframe and a predetermined time of day. The doorbell may be attachedto a building occupied by a resident. The predetermined timeframe maycomprise a time during which the resident is hosting a party within thebuilding. As well, the custom message may comprise a welcome message tothe party.

The custom message can be a second custom message, and the doorbell cancomprise a microphone. Methods can further comprise recording a firstcustom message with the microphone, wherein the first custom message canbe spoken by a first voice, wherein the second custom message emitted bythe speaker can be spoken by a second voice, and wherein a content ofthe first custom message substantially matches a content of the secondcustom message.

Methods can further include taking, by the doorbell, a picture of thevisitor, wherein determining the occurrence of the predeterminedcondition can comprise determining, based on the picture, that thevisitor is included in a database of suspicious visitors that previouslyvisited other doorbells.

Methods can further include creating a schedule of a first timeframe toemit a first sound, a second timeframe to emit a second sound, and athird timeframe to emit a third sound, wherein determining theoccurrence of the predetermined condition can comprise determining thata visitation time of the visitor is within the first timeframe, andemitting the custom message comprises emitting the first sound inresponse to determining that the visitation time of the visitor iswithin the first timeframe.

The disclosure also includes a doorbell system, comprising: a doorbellincluding a button, a speaker and a microphone, wherein the doorbell isconfigurable to attach to an exterior of a building, and wherein thebutton is configurable to receive a first button press and a secondbutton press; and a custom audible message received by the microphone inresponse to the first button press, wherein the custom audible messageis then emitted by the speaker in response to the second button press.

The custom audible message may comprise a name of a select visitor, andthe custom audible message may be emitted by the speaker in response toboth the second button press and the doorbell detecting an indication ofa presence of the select visitor.

Doorbell systems may further comprise a predetermined audible messageemitted by the speaker in response to the first button press. The customaudible message may be received by the microphone in response to thefirst button press and after the predetermined audible message isemitted by the speaker.

The first button press may comprise two button presses and the secondbutton press may comprise one button press. The first button press maycomprise the button being pressed for a first duration and the secondbutton press may comprise the button being pressed for a secondduration. The first duration may be greater than the second duration.

The doorbell may further comprise a memory communicatively coupled tothe microphone and speaker, wherein the memory may be configurable tostore the custom audible message and the predetermined audible message.

The disclosure also include a doorbell system, comprising: a doorbellincluding a button, a speaker and a microphone, wherein the doorbell isconfigurable to attach to an exterior of a building; a first customaudible message emitted by the speaker in response to the doorbelldetecting an indication of a presence of a first visitor; and a secondcustom audible message emitted by the speaker in response to thedoorbell detecting an indication of a presence of a second visitor.

The doorbell system may be communicatively coupled to a second doorbellsystem attached to an exterior of a second building that is remotelylocated with respect to the first building. As well, detecting theindication of the presence of the first visitor may comprise thedoorbell system receiving a first notification from the second doorbellsystem, and detecting the indication of the presence of the secondvisitor may comprise the doorbell system receiving a second notificationfrom the second doorbell system.

The first custom audible message may comprise a first name of the firstvisitor. The second visitor may be a solicitor and the second customaudible message may comprise an apology and a message that a resident ofthe building does not patronize solicitors.

Doorbell systems may comprise a wireless communication systemcommunicatively coupled to the doorbell, wherein the wirelesscommunication system is configurable to retrieve data from a remotecomputer; a third custom audible message emitted by the speaker inresponse to the doorbell detecting an indication of a presence of athird visitor, wherein the third custom audible message comprises afirst name of the third visitor; and a camera coupled to the doorbell,wherein the camera is configurable to capture a facial image of thethird visitor, wherein the first name of the third visitor is therebydetermined through the wireless communication system communicating withthe remote computer to match facial recognition data from the facialimage of the third visitor as captured by the camera with facialrecognition data from a facial image of the third visitor from an onlinesocial network.

Detecting the indication of the presence of the first visitor maycomprise determining an identity of the first visitor, and whereindetecting the indication of the presence of the second visitor maycomprise determining an identity of the second visitor. Doorbell systemsmay further comprise: a remote computing device communicatively coupledto the doorbell; and a text message received by the remote computingdevice, wherein the text message comprises at least one of the identityof the first visitor and the identity of the second visitor.

The embodiments described above include many optional features andaspects. Features and aspects of the embodiments can be combined.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages are described belowwith reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, butnot to limit, the invention. In the drawings, like reference charactersdenote corresponding features consistently throughout similarembodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device running software, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system is connectedto a building, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates a communication system that includes a securitysystem, a doorbell button, a wireless router, a server, and users,according to some embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flow diagram showing a method of operating asecurity system, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flow diagram showing another method of operating asecurity system, according to some embodiments.

FIGS. 7, 8, 9 and 10 illustrate visitors being detected by securitysystems, according to various embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of a security system that iscommunicatively coupled to a communication system, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of various event detection devicesthat are communicatively coupled to a communication system, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of a method of monitoring for an eventthrough a communication system, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example of various alarm types that may be usedbased on the certainty and severity of the event, according to someembodiments.

FIGS. 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27 and 28illustrate flow diagrams showing methods of operating a security system,according to various embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed below, inventivesubject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments toother alternative embodiments and/or uses, and to modifications andequivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto isnot limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. Forexample, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts oroperations of the method or process may be performed in any suitablesequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosedsequence. Various operations may be described as multiple discreteoperations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understandingcertain embodiments; however, the order of description should not beconstrued to imply that these operations are order dependent.Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described hereinmay be embodied as integrated components or as separate components.

For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects andadvantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all suchaspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus,for example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner thatachieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taughtherein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as mayalso be taught or suggested herein.

The following patent is incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Pat. No.7,583,191, entitled SECURITY SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USE OF SAME, andfiled Nov. 14, 2006.

INTRODUCTION

Communication systems can provide a secure and convenient way for aremotely located individual to communicate with a person who isapproaching a sensor, such as a proximity sensor or motion sensor, orwith a person who rings a doorbell, which can be located in a doorway,near an entrance, or within 15 feet of a door. Some communicationsystems allow an individual to hear, see, and talk with visitors whoapproach at least a portion of the communication system and/or press abutton, such as a doorbell's button. For example, communication systemscan use a computing device to enable a remotely located person to see,hear, and/or talk with visitors. Computing devices can includecomputers, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, smartphones, cellularphones, and wireless devices (e.g., cars with wireless communication).Example computing devices include the iPhone, iPad, iMac, MacBook Air,and MacBook Pro made by Apple Inc. Communication between a remotelylocated person and a visitor can occur via the Internet, cellularnetworks, telecommunication networks, and wireless networks.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system embodiment.The communication system 200 can include a security system 202 (e.g., adoorbell) and a computing device 204. Although the illustrated securitysystem 202 includes many components in one housing, several securitysystem embodiments include components in separate housings. The securitysystem 202 can include a camera assembly 208 and a doorbell button 212.The camera assembly 208 can be a video camera, which in some embodimentsis a webcam.

The security system 202 can include a diagnostic light 216 and a powerindicator light 220. In some embodiments, the diagnostic light 216 is afirst color (e.g., blue) if the security system 202 and/or thecommunication system 200 is connected to a wireless Internet network andis a second color (e.g., red) if the security system 202 and/or thecommunication system 200 is not connected to a wireless Internetnetwork. In some embodiments, the power indicator 220 is a first colorif the security system 202 is connected to a power source. The powersource can be power supplied by the building 300 to which the securitysystem 202 is attached. In some embodiments, the power indicator 220 isa second color or does not emit light if the security system 202 is notconnected to the power source.

As well, the security system 202 can include at least one speaker 488.The speaker 488 can be located along any portion of the security system202. For example, the speaker 488 can be located within an inner portionof the security system 202 or along an outer portion of the securitysystem 202. The speaker 488 can be any type of sound output deviceconfigured to emit sound, such as a digital speaker, an analog speaker,and the like.

Furthermore, the security system 202 (e.g., a doorbell) can include anouter housing 224, which can be water resistant and/or waterproof. Theouter housing can be made from metal or plastic, such as molded plasticwith a hardness of 60 Shore D. In some embodiments, the outer housing224 is made from brushed nickel or aluminum.

Rubber seals can be used to make the outer housing 224 water resistantor waterproof. The security system 202 can be electrically coupled to apower source, such as wires electrically connected to a building'selectrical power system. In some embodiments, the security system 202includes a battery for backup and/or primary power.

Wireless communication 230 can enable the security system 202 (e.g., adoorbell) to communicate with the computing device 204. Some embodimentsenable communication via cellular and/or WiFi networks. Some embodimentsenable communication via the Internet. Several embodiments enable wiredcommunication between the security system 202 and the computing device204. The wireless communication 230 can include the followingcommunication means: radio, WiFi (e.g., wireless local area network),cellular, Internet, Bluetooth, telecommunication, electromagnetic,infrared, light, sonic, and microwave. Other communication means areused by some embodiments. In some embodiments, such as embodiments thatinclude telecommunication or cellular communication means, the securitysystem 202 can initiate voice calls or send text messages to a computingdevice 204 (e.g., a smartphone, a desktop computer, a tablet computer, alaptop computer).

Some embodiments include computer software (e.g., application software),which can be a mobile application designed to run on smartphones, tabletcomputers, and other mobile devices. Software of this nature issometimes referred to as “app” software. Some embodiments includesoftware designed to run on desktop computers and laptop computers.

The computing device 204 can run software with a graphical userinterface. The user interface can include icons or buttons. In someembodiments, the software is configured for use with a touch-screencomputing device such as a smartphone or tablet.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device 204 running software. The softwareincludes a user interface 240 displayed on a display screen 242. Theuser interface 240 can include a security system indicator 244, whichcan indicate the location of the security system that the user interfaceis displaying. For example, a person can use one computing device 204 tocontrol and/or interact with multiple security systems, such as onesecurity system located at a front door and another security systemlocated at a back door. Selecting the security system indicator 244 canallow the user to choose another security system (e.g., the back doorsecurity system rather than the front door security system).

The user interface 240 can include a connectivity indicator 248. In someembodiments, the connectivity indicator can indicate whether thecomputing device is in communication with a security system, theInternet, and/or a cellular network. The connectivity indicator 248 canalert the user if the computing device 204 has lost its connection withthe security system 202; the security system 202 has been damaged; thesecurity system 202 has been stolen; the security system 202 has beenremoved from its mounting location; the security system 202 lostelectrical power; and/or if the computing device 204 cannot communicatewith the security system 202. In some embodiments, the connectivityindicator 248 alerts the user of the computing device 204 by flashing,emitting a sound, displaying a message, and/or displaying a symbol.

In some embodiments, if the security system 202 loses power, losesconnectivity to the computing device 204, loses connectivity to theInternet, and/or loses connectivity to a remote server, a remote server206 sends an alert (e.g., phone call, text message, image on the userinterface 240) regarding the power and/or connectivity issue. In severalembodiments, the remote server 206 can manage communication between thesecurity system 202 and the computing device. In some embodiments,information from the security system 202 is stored by the remote server206. In several embodiments, information from the security system 202 isstored by the remote server 206 until the information can be sent to thecomputing device 204, uploaded to the computing device 204, and/ordisplayed to the remotely located person via the computing device 204.The remote server 206 can be a computing device that stores informationfrom the security system 202 and/or from the computing device 204. Insome embodiments, the remote server 206 is located in a data center.

In some embodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server206 attempts to communicate with the security system 202. If thecomputing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 is unable tocommunicate with the security system 202, the computing device 204and/or the remote server 206 alerts the remotely located person via thesoftware, phone, text, a displayed message, and/or a website. In someembodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206attempts to communicate with the security system 202 periodically; atleast every five hours and/or less than every 10 minutes; at least every24 hours and/or less than every 60 minutes; or at least every hourand/or less than every second.

In some embodiments, the server 206 can initiate communication to thecomputer device 204 and/or to the security system 202. In severalembodiments, the server 206 can initiate, control, and/or blockcommunication between the computing device 204 and the security system202.

In several embodiments, a user can log into an “app,” website, and/orsoftware on a computing device (e.g., mobile computing device,smartphone, tablet, desktop computer) to adjust the security systemsettings discussed herein.

In some embodiments, a computing device can enable a user to watch livevideo and/or hear live audio from a security system due to the user'srequest rather than due to actions of a visitor. Some embodimentsinclude a computing device initiating a live video feed (or a video feedthat is less than five minutes old).

In some embodiments, the user interface 240 displays an image 252 suchas a still image or a video of an area near and/or in front of thesecurity system 202. The image 252 can be taken by the camera assembly208 and stored by the security system 202, server 206, and/or computingdevice 204. The user interface 240 can include a recording button 256 toenable a user to record images, videos, and/or sound from the cameraassembly 208, microphone of the security system 202, and/or microphoneof the computing device 204.

In several embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a picture button260 to allow the user to take still pictures and/or videos of the areanear and/or in front of the security system 202. The user interface 240can also include a sound adjustment button 264 and a mute button 268.The user interface 240 can include camera manipulation buttons such aszoom, pan, and light adjustment buttons. In some embodiments, the cameraassembly 208 automatically adjusts between Day Mode and Night Mode. Someembodiments include an infrared camera and/or infrared lights toilluminate an area near the security system 202 to enable the cameraassembly 208 to provide sufficient visibility (even at night).

In some embodiments, buttons include diverse means of selecting variousoptions, features, and functions. Buttons can be selected by mouseclicks, keyboard commands, and touching a touch screen. Many embodimentsinclude buttons that can be selected without touch screens.

In some embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a quality selectionbutton, which can allow a user to select the quality and/or amount ofthe data transmitted from the security system 202 to the computingdevice 204 and/or from the computing device 204 to the security system202.

In some embodiments, video can be sent to and/or received from thecomputing device 204 using video chat protocols such as FaceTime (byApple Inc.) or Skype (by Microsoft Corporation). In some embodiments,these videos are played by videoconferencing apps on the computingdevice 204 instead of being played by the user interface 240.

The user interface 240 can include a termination button 276 to endcommunication between the security system 202 and the computing device204. In some embodiments, the termination button 276 ends the ability ofthe person located near the security system 202 (i.e., the visitor) tohear and/or see the user of the computing device 204, but does not endthe ability of the user of the computing device 204 to hear and/or seethe person located near the security system 202.

In some embodiments, a button 276 is both an answer button (to accept acommunication request from a visitor) and is a termination button (toend communication between the security system 202 and the computingdevice 204). The button 276 can include the word “Answer” when thesystem is attempting to establish two-way communication between thevisitor and the user. Selecting the button 276 when the system isattempting to establish two-way communication between the visitor andthe user can start two-way communication. The button 276 can include thewords “End Call” during two-way communication between the visitor andthe user. Selecting the button 276 during two-way communication betweenthe visitor and the user can terminate two-way communication. In someembodiments, terminating two-way communication still enables the user tosee and hear the visitor. In some embodiments, terminating two-waycommunication causes the computing device 204 to stop showing video fromthe security system and to stop emitting sounds recorded by the securitysystem.

In some embodiments, the user interface 240 opens as soon as thesecurity system detects a visitor (e.g., senses indications of avisitor). Once the user interface 240 opens, the user can see and/orhear the visitor even before “answering” or otherwise accepting two-waycommunication, in several embodiments.

Some method embodiments include detecting a visitor with a securitysystem. The methods can include causing the user interface to display ona remote computing device 204 due to the detection of the visitor (e.g.,with or without user interaction). The methods can include displayingvideo from the security system and/or audio from the security systembefore the user accepts two-way communication with the visitor. Themethods can include displaying video from the security system and/oraudio from the security system before the user accepts the visitor'scommunication request. The methods can include the computing devicesimultaneously asking the user if the user wants to accept (e.g.,answer) the communication request and displaying audio and/or video ofthe visitor. For example, in some embodiments, the user can see and hearthe visitor via the security system before opening a means of two-waycommunication with the visitor.

In some embodiments, the software includes means to start the video feedon demand. For example, a user of the computing device might wonder whatis happening near the security system 202. The user can open thesoftware application on the computing device 204 and instruct theapplication to show live video and/or audio from the security device 202even if no event near the security system 202 has triggered thecommunication.

In several embodiments, the security device 202 can be configured torecord when the security device 202 detects movement and/or the presenceof a person. The user of the computing device 204 can later review allvideo and/or audio records when the security device 202 detectedmovement and/or the presence of a person.

Referring now to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the server 206 controlscommunication between the computing device 204 and the security system202, which can be a doorbell with a camera, a microphone, and a speaker.In several embodiments, the server 206 does not control communicationbetween the computing device 204 and the security system 202.

In some embodiments, data captured by the security system and/or thecomputing device 204 (such as videos, pictures, and audio) is stored byanother remote device such as the server 206. Cloud storage, enterprisestorage, and/or networked enterprise storage can be used to store video,pictures, and/or audio from the communication system 200 or from anypart of the communication system 200. The user can download and/orstream stored data and/or storage video, pictures, and/or audio. Forexample, a user can record visitors for a year and then later can reviewconversations with visitors from the last year. In some embodiments,remote storage, the server 206, the computing device 204, and/or thesecurity system 202 can store information and statistics regardingvisitors and usage.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system 202 isconnected to a building 300, which can include an entryway 310 that hasa door 254. A door lock 250 can be configured to lock and unlock thedoor 254. Electrical wires 304 can electrically couple the securitysystem 202 to the electrical system of the building 300 such that thesecurity system 202 can receive electrical power from the building 300.

A wireless network 308 can allow devices to wirelessly access theInternet. The security system 202 can access the Internet via thewireless network 308. The wireless network 308 can transmit data fromthe security system 202 to the Internet, which can transmit the data toremotely located computing devices 204. The Internet and wirelessnetworks can transmit data from remotely located computing devices 204to the security system 202. In some embodiments, a security system 202connects to a home's WiFi.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, one computing device 204 (e.g., a laptop, asmartphone, a mobile computing device, a television) can communicatewith multiple security systems 202. In some embodiments, multiplecomputing devices 204 can communicate with one security system 202.

In some embodiments, the security system 202 can communicate (e.g.,wirelessly 230) with a television 306, which can be a smart television.Users can view the television 306 to see a visitor and/or talk with thevisitor.

FIG. 4 illustrates a communication system 310 that includes a securitysystem 320, a doorbell button 212, a WiFi router 328, a server 332, andusers 336. In step 340, a visitor initiates a communication request bypressing the doorbell button 212 or triggering a motion or proximitysensor. The visitor can trigger the motion or proximity sensor byapproaching the security system 320. In step 350, the security system320 connects or otherwise communicates with a home WiFi router 328. Instep 360, the server 332 receives a signal from the WiFi router 328 andsends video and/or audio to the users 336 via a wireless network 364. Instep 370, the users see the visitor, hear the visitor, and talk with thevisitor. Step 370 can include using a software application to see, hear,and/or talk with the visitor. The visitor and users 336 can engage intwo-way communication 374 via the internet or other wirelesscommunication system even when the visitor and the users 336 are locatedfar away from each other. Some embodiments enable users to receivecommunication requests and communicate with visitors via diverse mobilecommunication standards including third generation (“3G”), fourthgeneration (“4G”), long term evolution (“LTE”), worldwideinteroperability for microwave access (“WiMAX”), and WiFi.

In some cases, the users 336 utilize the communication system 310 tocommunicate with visitors who are in close proximity to the users 336.For example, a user 336 located inside her home can communicate with avisitor located just outside the home via the communication system 310.

Situational Sound Embodiments

The security system 202 may be configured to play unique sounds inresponse to detecting specific situations and/or during certain times ofday. The sounds may be preprogrammed sounds or completely customizableby a user of the security system 202. As well, the security system 202may be configured to play any of the sounds according to specificsituations. For example, the security system 202 may be configured toplay a specific message for a specific visiting individual, and/or maybe configured to play a specific message when a potential visitor isidentified as a specific person or is included in a list of specificpeople.

The security system 202 may include a speaker 488 configured to emit anytype of sound. The security system 202 may also include a visitordetection system that may include at least one of a button 212, a camera208, and a motion detector 218. Accordingly, the visitor detectionsystem may be configurable to receive various indications of a visitor'spresence. As well, the speaker 488 and the visitor detection system maybe directly or indirectly coupled to the security system 202. Evenstill, the speaker 488 and the visitor detection system may bemechanically, electrically, and/or communicatively coupled to thesecurity system 202.

The security system 202 may detect different indications of a visitor'spresence. As shown in FIG. 5, the security system 202 can be configuredto receive a first indication of a visitor's presence (at step 560). Inresponse to receiving the first indication of the visitor's presence,the security system 202 can emit a first sound with the speaker 488 (atstep 562). The security system 202 can be configured to receive a secondindication of a visitor's presence (at step 564). In response toreceiving the second indication of the visitor's presence, the securitysystem 202 can emit a second sound with the speaker 488 (at step 566).The first sound can be audibly different than the second sound.

Some of the indications can be interpreted as being associated with afriendly or welcome visitor, while other indications can be interpretedas being associated with an unfriendly or unwelcome visitor. Accordingto these different indications, the security system 202, by the speaker488, can emit different sounds.

With reference to FIG. 7, when the security system 202 receives anindication that a visitor 580 has pressed the button 212 (at step 582),this can be interpreted as an indication of a friendly, or welcomevisitor. In response to receiving the indication that the button 212 hasbeen pressed, the speaker 488 can emit a first sound (at step 584), suchas a friendly sound (e.g. “Welcome to our humble abode.”).

As illustrated in FIG. 8, when the security system 202 receives anindication that a visitor 586 has been moving in front of the securitysystem 202 for a prolonged or predetermined time (e.g. 15 seconds or anytime that indicates that the visitor is loitering) without pressing thebutton 212 (at step 588), this can be interpreted as an unfriendly orunwelcome visitor. In response to receiving the indication that thevisitor has been moving in front of the security system 202 withoutpressing the button 212, the speaker 488 can emit a second sound (atstep 590). The second sound can be an alert sound (e.g. a warning tomove away from the building 300—“Step away from the house!”). It shouldbe appreciated that the security system 202 can be configured to emitany number of sounds, such as a third sound, a fourth sound, a fifthsound, and any number of additional sounds.

The security system 202 can be configured to receive any number ofindications. For example, in addition to a button press and a motion ofa visitor, the indications can include indications of a remote computingdevice 204, a noise, a thermal signature (such as a thermal gradientindicating the presence of a person or animal), a retina scan, afingerprint scan, a ground vibration, and the like. It should beappreciated that the indication can include any indication of a presenceof any visitor, such as a person or animal.

In some embodiments, the security system 202 can emit different soundsfor a first visitor. For example, as the first visitor approaches thebuilding 300, the security system 202 can emit a first sound based uponthe motion of the first visitor. As well, the security system 202 canemit a second sound once the first visitor pushes the button 212 of thesecurity system 202.

Furthermore, any of the indications described in this disclosure can beassociated with a visitor that is either welcome or unwelcome at thebuilding. Accordingly, the security system 202 can be configured to anyenvironment in which the building 300 is situated. For example, somebuildings 300 can be located in high traffic areas where it is commonfor people to walk by the front of the security system 202 withoutpressing the button 212. In this regard, the security system 202 can beconfigured to ignore indications of motion and only emit sounds inresponse to affirmative indications that the visitor is visiting thebuilding 300, such as an indication that the button 212 has beenpressed. In some embodiments, the security system 202 can be configuredto only respond to motion in certain zones. For example, if the securitysystem 202 is located 20 feet from a busy sidewalk, then the securitysystem 202 can be configured to ignore all motion that occurs more than15 feet from the security system 202. In this manner, the securitysystem 202 can only respond to movements occurring on the buildingproperty.

As well, combinations of indications can be interpreted in variousmanners. For example, a combination of an indication of motion (i.e.movement) of a visitor in front of the security system 202 and anindication that the visitor has pressed the button 212 can indicate thatthe visitor is welcome at the building 300. As previously described, thespeaker 488 of the security system 202 can emit a friendly message inresponse to the combination of indications.

Even still, the security system 202 can be configured to emit differentsounds in response to a positive detection of one indication and anegative detection of another indication. For example, if the securitysystem 202 detects motion of a visitor but does not detect sound, thiscan be interpreted as an unwelcome visitor, such as a prowler sneakingaround the outside of the building 300. In response, the speaker 488 ofthe security system 202 can emit an alert sound (e.g. a warning to exitthe premise before the authorities are notified).

Furthermore, the time of day and/or day when a visitor approaches thebuilding 300 can also indicate whether the visitor is welcome or not. Asshown in FIG. 6, the security system 202 can be configured to receive anindication of a visitor's presence at a first time of day (at step 570).The first time of day can occur between sunrise and sunset, or any othertime of day. In response to receiving the indication of the visitor'spresence at the first time of day, the security system 202 can emit afirst sound with the speaker 488 (at step 572). In some embodiments, thefirst sound comprises an audible message spoken by a female voice, whilesome embodiments may comprise an audible message spoken by a male voice.

Furthermore, the security system 202 can be configured to receive anindication of the visitor's presence at a second time of day (at step574). It should be appreciated that the second time of day can occurbetween sunset and sunrise, or any other time of day. In response toreceiving the indication of the visitor's presence at the second time ofday, the security system 202 can emit a second sound with the speaker488 (at step 576). In some embodiments, the second sound comprises anaudible message spoken by a male voice, while some embodiments maycomprise an audible message spoken by a female voice.

To illustrate a more specific example, such as the one shown in FIG. 9,if a visitor 592 presses the button 212 at noon on a weekend day (atstep 594), the speaker 488 can emit a welcome message (e.g. “Welcome.We'll be right there.) (at step 596). In another example, as illustratedin FIG. 10, if a visitor 597 presses the button 212 at midnight on aworkday (at step 598), the speaker 488 can emit a do not disturb messageor a message instructing the visitor to come back another time (e.g.“Please come back tomorrow!”).

Combinations of indications can be interpreted differently depending onthe time of day. For example, in response to an indication of a motionand a noise during the day, the speaker 488 of the security system 202can emit a friendly message. However, in response to an indication of amotion and a noise during the night, the speaker 488 can emit a warningmessage.

Even still, the security system 202 can be configured to responddifferently based on the unique circumstances of the indication. Forexample, if the motion detector 218 of the security system 202 detects aslow movement versus a faster movement, then the speaker 488 can emitdifferent sounds based upon these various circumstances. A slow movementcan be interpreted as a prowler approaching the building, while a fastermovement, such as a movement of a person walking at 3.5 miles per hour,can be interpreted as a friendly visitor approaching the building 300.

The time of day can be any selected time of day and any number of timeranges can be used. For example, the security system 202 can emit awelcome message during sunrise to sunset and an alert or warning messageduring sunset to sunrise. Accordingly, because sunrise and sunset changeon a daily basis, the security system 202 can be communicatively coupledto an outside database(s) to allow the security system 202 to therebyautomatically respond to these ever-changing conditions.

The security system 202 (e.g. doorbell) can elect to emit a particularsound, such as a first sound or a second sound, based on a time at whichthe security system 202 detects an indication of a presence of avisitor. In some embodiments, the security system 202 is configured todetect an amount of light, which may indicate a time of day. In responseto detecting the amount of light, the security system 202 can elect toemit the first sound or the second sound based on the amount of light.

As well, the security system 202 can be configured to provide uniqueresponses during different time ranges on specific days. For example,the user may have a bowling league every third Monday of the month.Accordingly, during that time, (e.g. from 6 pm-8:30 pm) on the thirdMonday of the month, in response to detecting an indication of apresence of a friendly visitor, the speaker 488 of the security system202 can emit a friendly message telling the visitor that their presenceis appreciated but the visitor should come back another time. In anotherexample, the user may be on vacation from the 1^(st) to the 10^(th) andthe user may wish to emit more intimidating warnings to secure thebuilding 300. Generally speaking, the security system 202 can beconfigured to emit any type of sound in response to any time of dayand/or day.

The security system 202 can be configured to detect specific visitorsand emit certain sounds in response to detecting the specific visitors.For example, if the security system 202 detects a first visitor, such asa relative of the homeowner, the security system 202 can always emit afriendly sound, no matter how the first visitor approaches the home, orduring what time of day. As well, if the security system 202 detects asecond visitor, such as an unknown party (e.g. a solicitor), thesecurity system 202 can emit an unfriendly sound, no matter how thesecond visitor approaches the home, or during what time of day.

To determine the identity of a visitor, the security system 202 can useany type of identity recognition technology, such as facial recognition,to determine an indication of an identity of a visitor. Some of thesetypes of identity recognition technologies are disclosed in U.S.Nonprovisional patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376; filed Feb. 3,2015; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS. Theentire contents of patent application Ser. No. 14/612,376 areincorporated by reference herein.

The different types of sounds emitted by the speaker 488 can beconfigured to match the appropriate indication as detected by thesecurity system 202. For example, if the security system 202 detects anunfriendly visitor, the speaker 488 can emit a message spoken by a malevoice to thereby intimidate the unfriendly visitor. Contra, if thesecurity system 202 detects a friendly visitor, the speaker 488 can emita message spoken by a female voice to thereby welcome the visitor. Aswell, the security system 202 can be configured to emit any other typeof sound. For example, a welcome visitor can be greeted by a pleasantmelody or a ding-dong, while an unwelcome visitor can be greeted by analarm sound or a warning message.

As well, messages can be spoken in any language, volume, pitch, accent,and the like. Users may find that various combinations of vocalcharacteristics to be useful in different situations. For example, if auser is hosting a Mardi gras party, the user can configure the securitysystem 202 to emit a message spoken by a person with a southern accent.Generally, it should be appreciated that the speaker 488 of the securitysystem 202 can be configured to emit any type of sound for any type ofspecific situation.

Likewise, the security system 202 can be configured to play a specificmessage if the potential visitor is not included in a list. For example,where a potential visitor is not included in a list of the resident'scontacts, the security system 202 can be configured to indicate that theresident does not accept solicitors and/or request the visitor toprovide identifying information or describe the purpose of the visit.

In some embodiments, the security system 202 can be configured to play aspecific message if the potential visitor has a criminal background. Forexample, a user can configure the security system 202 to play a specificmessage where a potential visitor is a registered sex offender.

The sounds emitted by the security system 202 can be recorded by theuser him/herself. As well, the sounds can be downloaded from anothersource, such as a remote computer (e.g. a remote server), a remotecomputing device (e.g. a smart phone), a website, a database (e.g.iTunes®), and the like. Also, methods can include selecting the firstsound and the second sound with a remote computing device that isconfigured to receive alerts from the doorbell. The selected sounds canbe wirelessly transmitted to the doorbell.

As well, the sounds can be recorded with a remote computing device 204and the sounds can be set up for temporary use whereby the sounds canexpire upon a predetermined time. For example, a user can enter anexpiration date of the recorded sound with the remote computing device204. Furthermore, the user can wirelessly send the first sound and theexpiration date from the remote computing device to the doorbell. Oncethe expiration date passes, the security system 202 can then cease toemit the recorded sound from the security system 202.

As well, the security system 202 can be configured to receive soundemitting parameters from a remote computing device 204. The securitysystem 202 can emit a predetermined sound based upon the sound emittingparameter. In some embodiments, the sound emitting parameter includes atleast one of an identity of the first visitor, data associated with thefirst visitor, a time, a location of a user of the remote computingdevice. In some embodiments, the security system 202 can automaticallydownload a third sound based on the sound emitting parameters. Thesecurity system 202 can emit the third sound from the speaker accordingto rules associated with the third sound.

Alert Communication Embodiments

Embodiments of the security system 202 can be configured to alertindividuals located outside of a building (e.g. a home). For example,the security system 202 can be configured to flash a light, emit a sound(e.g. alternating high pitch and low pitch sounds), initiate acommunication session with a remote computing device 204, and the like.These various alerts can be useful to individuals, such as firstresponders, seeking to identify the location of an event, such as anemergency event(s) occurring within or outside the home. Home, as usedherein, may refer to a building whereby one or more occupants sleep inthe building on a permanent basis. Home may distinguishable from anoffice building by the lack of permanent occupants that sleep in theoffice building. Home may refer to an apartment building due to thepermanent nature of an occupant for the duration of a lease. Home may bedistinguishable from a hotel due to the lack of permanent occupants.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system 202 iscommunicatively coupled to a communication device 416. The securitysystem 202 may be part of a communication system 400. The communicationsystem 400 can be similar to that of the communication system 200except, the communication system 400 may also be configured to allowcommunication between the security system 202 and the communicationdevice 416.

In various embodiments, the security system 202 can be communicativelycoupled, directly and/or via the cloud, to a communication device 416,such as a hub device, a communication system, and/or an event detectiondevice 418, such as a sensor, (e.g., a peripheral device, such as a NestProtect® (registered by Google Inc.), Nest Learning Thermostat®(registered by Google Inc.), DropCam® (registered by Google Inc.), andthe like. The communication device 416, event detection device 418and/or the security system 202 can be used to monitor various eventswithin the building 300 (e.g., home). Specifically, the communicationdevice 416 and/or event detection device 418 can detect emergency eventsand then notify the security system 202. In some embodiments, thecommunication device 416 is communicatively coupled to the eventdetection device 418 that detects the emergency event or adverse event(which is discussed further herein). In this manner, the security system202 may directly or indirectly receive a notification of the emergencyevent from the event detection device 418 and/or the communicationdevice 416.

The security system 202 can communicate with the communication device416 via a communication network 414. The communication network 414 canbe similar to the wireless communication 230, however, the communicationnetwork 414 can be wired or wireless. In embodiments, the communicationnetwork 414 can utilize the existing electrical wires in the doorbellwires to communicate with the security system 202 (e.g., powerlinenetworking). The communication network 414 can also utilize a wiredLocal Area Network. In embodiments, the communication network 414 caninclude a Wide Area Network (WAN) that connects the communication device416 to the security system 202 over the Internet.

In embodiments, the communication device 416 is a type of device that isconfigured to connect multiple devices and facilitate communicationbetween the multiple devices. The security system 202 may be a devicethat also is communicatively coupled to the communication device 416.The communication device 416 may receive a transmission from one device(i.e., an event detection device 418), make a determination on what typeof communication to perform (e.g., an alert), and transmit thecommunication to a second device (e.g., the security system 202) to takefurther action.

The security system 202 can be configured to communicate with remotecomputing devices (i.e., the computing device 204). The computing device204 may refer to a remote computing device in embodiments. The securitysystem 202 can initiate a communication session through thecommunication network 414 by sending a request to the computing device204 to establish a secure connection (e.g., a virtual private network)to enhance security. In embodiments, the communication session may alsoinclude an indication that an event (as discussed further herein) hasbeen initiated.

The security system 202 can have an outer housing 224. The outer housing224 may be configurable to attach to a building 300. The outer housing224 of the security system 202 can attach to the building 300 using avariety of permanent or temporary mounting mechanisms. In embodiments,the permanent mounting mechanism may prevent the removal of the securitysystem 202. The building 300 may include a variety of structures. Forexample, the building 300 includes a home, which is a type of building300. The home can include various types of structures in various squarefootages. For example, a home can be a wooden framed building with anexterior of stucco, brick, or siding. In embodiments, a home can bedistinguished from other types of buildings based on the livable area(e.g., 500 square feet to 5000 square feet). In embodiments, a home canalso be defined as being a freestanding structure without shared walls.A home may also be defined by zoning constraints. For example, the homemay be zoned residential instead of commercial or industrial.

The outer housing 224 can also include a visitor detection system 412coupled to the outer housing 224. The visitor detection system 412 canbe an assembly of components that are collectively configured to detectvisitors in the immediate vicinity (e.g., within 0.5 to 50 feet) of thesecurity system 202. The visitor detection system 412 can include thedoorbell button 212, the camera assembly 208, and an audio input device410. In addition, the visitor detection system 412 can also include themotion detector 218 and fingerprint sensor 210. The audio input device410 can be a device that captures audio (e.g., a microphone). The audioinput device 410 can have various sensitivity ranges depending on theapplication. In embodiments, the audio input device 410 can includemultiple microphones to extend the coverage area of audio capture. Forexample, the audio input device can have one microphone on board theouter housing 224 and receive input from another microphone locatedwithin the house (e.g., through the communication network 414).

The outer housing 224 may also include a deactivation unit 411. Thedeactivation unit 411 can be a component that is communicatively coupledto the security system 202. The deactivation unit 411 may be responsiblefor disabling the alert communication system 402. In embodiments, thedeactivation unit 411 is part of the alert communication system 402. Thealert communication system 402 may work passively or actively. In anactive configuration, the security system 202 can actively monitor for acommand to deactivate. For example, the security system 202 can send“activation status requested” signal to a deactivation unit 411 inregular intervals along with a unique randomized code and receive an“activation=True” signal from the deactivation unit 411 along with theunique randomized code. When communication is interrupted, then anon-response of the activation status may indicate “activation=True”.When deactivated, the deactivation unit 411 transmits an“activation=False” signal along with the unique randomized code. Theactively monitoring for the command can be advantageous wherecommunication is lost with the deactivation unit 411 (i.e., thecommunication is modified or the deactivation is spoofed by anintruder).

The deactivation unit 411 may also passively monitor for the command.For example, an occupant may input a command through the deactivationunit 411 that is transmitted to the security system 202. The securitysystem 202 can receive the command passively. In embodiments, thedeactivation unit 411 may also be communicatively coupled with a remotecomputing device 204. The deactivation command may originate from theremote computing device 204 to deactivate the alert communication system402 in either actively or passively.

The outer housing 224 can also include an alert communication system 402coupled to the outer housing 224. The alert communication system 402 canbe configurable to activate in response to an initiation of an event.For example, an alert from the communication device 416 that istransmitted to the security system 202 can activate various componentson the security system 202 through the alert communication system 402.The alert communication system 402 can include components to communicatealerts to a user (e.g., an occupant of the home). In embodiments, thealert communication system 402 is the security system 202 or part of thesecurity system 202. In embodiments, the alert communication system 402includes a light 406 and a speaker 404. The light 406 can comprise thediagnostic light 216 and/or the power indicator light 220, as shown inFIG. 1, and/or any other light coupled to the security system 202. Aswell, the speaker 404 may comprise the speaker 488, as illustrated inFIG. 1, and/or any other speaker coupled to the security system 202.

In embodiments, the alert communication system 402 refers to acollection of components for the purpose of alerting an occupant of thebuilding 300. The alert communication system 402 can also refer to acontrol unit for the components that alert an occupant of the building300. The control of the alert communication system 402 can be separatefrom the control for the security system 202. In embodiments, the alertcommunication system 402 is attached to an exterior surface of the home(i.e., a building 300). The outer housing 224 may be attached to aninterior surface of the home (i.e., a building 300). The remotecomputing device 204 can be operated by the homeowner (i.e., a type ofoccupant).

The speaker 404 of the alert communication system 404 can be configuredto emit a sound in response to the initiation of the event. For example,if the communication device 416 transmits an alert that indicates anemergency, then the security device 202 can emit a sound in the speaker404 that indicates danger. The speaker 404 can be configured to emit awide-range of sounds and various decibel levels depending on theapplication. For example, a more severe alert can be louder than a lesssevere alert. The security system 202 can alert an occupant ofsuspicious smoke by saying the location of the smoke and the time thesmoke was detected.

The speaker 404 can simply emit a voice that says “Danger, Danger,Danger” to alert an occupant of the building 300. The sound emitted bythe security device 202 can be unique to the type of alert. For example,if a fire alert is transmitted by the communication device 416, then thesecurity device 202 can emit a voice that says “Fire, Fire, Fire” andrepeats at a set interval. Various sounds can also be used toselectively alert other occupants. For example, a high frequency soundof 24 kHz to 45 kHz can selectively alert canine occupants of thebuilding 300 without alerting a human. In another example, a sound from17 kHz to 23 kHz may selectively alert children but not adults. Variouspatterns of sounds can also be produced. For example, the “SOS” Morsecode pattern may be used to indicate distress.

The light 406 of the security system 202 may be configurable toilluminate in response to the initiation of the event. The light 406 canemit a variety of colors in a variety of patterns. For example, thelight 406 can emit both a green light, a white light, and a red light. Agreen light can be lit during normal operation. A white light color canbe used for ordinary alerts, such as a power outage. A red light colorcan be used to indicate an imminent emergency that alerts the occupantto leave the building 300 immediately. For example, the red light colorcan be used to alert the occupant of a gas leakage or a fire or armedintruders.

In embodiments, the light 406 can flash at various frequencies toindicate a pattern. For example, three short flashes, followed by threelong flashes, followed by three short flashes, can indicate distress.While rapid flashes can indicate a higher priority than slower flashesof light. The light 406 can be coordinated with the speaker 404. Forexample, the light 406 can flash at the same time that the speaker 404makes a sound. The light 406 can also flash before or after the emissionof sound from the speaker 404.

The alert communication system 402 can also include emission of an odor.The odor can be discernable by an occupant to know that something iswrong or can ward away an intruder. For example, if the communicationdevice 416 alerts the security system 202 of an intruder, then a strongsmell (such as that of a skunk) can trigger a silent alarm. Varioussmells can be used. For example, flowery odors can be used fornon-urgent alerts (such as a water leak) while mercaptan-based odors canbe used for urgent alerts.

The alert communication system 402 can include remote communication 407.The remote communication 407 can be responsible for communicating with aremote computing device 204 the status of the alarm. In embodiments, theremote communication 407 can be a module that communicates with asecurity monitoring service, which can also have a dedicatedcommunication channel that is different than the communication network414 in order to alert authorities in the event of a power outage.

In embodiments, the security system 202 is powered by an electricalpower input 408. The electrical power input 408 can be a battery. Theelectrical power input 408 can also be from an electrical source such asfrom a household Alternating Current. The electrical power input 408 canalso be configured to receive a step-down voltage (e.g., around 8V to24V) from doorbell wires 304. The alert communication system 402 may beelectrically coupled to electrical wires 409 (through the electricalpower input 408). The electrical wires 409 can be configurable to becoupled to the doorbell wires 304 of a home (e.g., the building 300).The alert communication system 402 can be configurable to activate inresponse to a determination that an event has been initiated through theelectrical wires 409. In embodiments, the communication can happen overpowerline networking. Various spikes in electrical signals from theelectrical wires 409 can also signal the alert communication system 402.In embodiments, a lack of electrical signal from the electrical wires409 can also activate the alert communication system 402. For example,the lack of electrical power input 408 from the electrical wires 409 canactivate the alert communication system 402. The alert communicationsystem 402 can further utilize a backup battery system through theelectrical power input 408 and cause the light 406 to emit white coloredlight so that an occupant can see.

The security system 202 may be configured as a passive or active device.As a passive device, the security system 202 may receive notificationsof emergency events from the communication device and/or the eventdetection device 418. For example, a smoke detector event detectiondevice 418 can transmit a smoke event to the communication device, whichmay communicate to the security system 202 an indication that the smokeevent is occurring. The security system 202 can be monitoring fornotifications from the communication device whenever a communicationchannel is established.

As an active device, the security system 202 may be configured toactively monitor whether the communication device and/or event detectiondevice 418 has detected the occurrence or initiation of an emergencyevent (or adverse event). For example, the security system 202 canperiodically request from the communication device a status of events.If there is no status, then the security system 202 can wait untilanother request is filled.

FIG. 12 illustrates a block diagram of an enhanced view of various eventdetection devices 418, according to some embodiments. The eventdetection devices 418 can be communicatively coupled to thecommunication device. Types of event detection device 418 can include asmoke alarm 420 or a burglar alarm 422. The event detection device 418can be configured to communicate with a communication device or to theremote device 204 through the communication network 414. In embodiments,the event detection device 418 can be “smart” and communicate with avariety of devices. The event detection device 418 can connect via theInternet of Things (IoT) and may each have a unique network identifier.The IoT may encompass various standards. For example, standards mayinclude ALLJOYN® (Registered by Qualcomm Innovation Center Inc.), ThreadGroup, IEEE® (Registered by the Institute of Electronic and ElectricalEngineers, Inc.) P2413 working group, IoTivity® (Registered by SamsungElectronics Co., Ltd.), or Representational State Transfer.

The security system 202 may comprise an alert communication system 402that may include a light 406, a speaker 404, and a wirelesscommunication system 230 that may be configured to initiate atransmission with a remote computing device 204. For example, thecommunication device may comprise a smart smoke detector 420 (e.g. NestProtect®, registered by Google Inc.), and in response to the smart smokedetector detecting elevated levels of smoke 434, or elevated levels ofother toxic gases, the security system 202 may activate its alertcommunication system 402 (e.g. flashing a light and/or emit a sound).This may thereby alert individuals outside the home as to the locationof the home where the emergency event is occurring.

As well, it should be appreciated that the emergency event can compriseany type of event 424 that may require the attention of another party.As used, event can refer to an emergency event or an adverse event,which indicates harm to an occupant or requires the attention of a partyother than the occupant. For example, the emergency event may compriseat least one of a fire 426, a gas leak 428, a break-in 436, elevatedlevels of smoke 434, elevated levels of radon 432, elevated levels ofcarbon monoxide 430, and the like.

The alert communication system 402 can be configured to alertindividuals located outside the home in any variety of ways. Forexample, the alert communication system 402 can flash a bright lightemitting diode and/or a light located behind the doorbell button 212,such as the diagnostic light 216, on the security system 202. In someexamples, the alert communication system 402 can emit a loud sound fromthe speaker 404. For example, the loud sound can be alternating high andlow pitch sounds that may be heard by individuals located within 300feet of the home. The high and low pitch sounds can be of high and lowfrequencies that may be heard by individuals located within aneighboring home and/or a vehicle passing by. The loud sound can be aunique sound easily detectable by individuals. As well, the sound cancomprise a noise that indicates danger or help is required.

Furthermore, the alert communication system 402 can be configured toinitiate a transmission to a remote computing device 204. For example,if the security system 202 determines that a break-in has occurred, thesecurity system 202 may initiate a computing session and/or anotification with the remote computing device 204 to alert an individualthat is operating the remote computing device 204 of the break-in 436 atthe home. As well, it should be appreciated that the security system 202can initiate a transmission to any other party, such as an emergencydispatcher (e.g. 911).

The security system 202 may be configured to activate its alertcommunication system 402 after a predetermined amount of time. Thepredetermined amount of time may be 0 seconds, 10 seconds, 20 seconds, 1minute, and the like. Generally, it should be appreciated that the alertcommunication system 402 may activate nearly at the same time as thecommunication device 416 detecting the emergency event 424 or any timethereafter.

FIG. 13 illustrates a flowchart of a method 500 of monitoring for anevent through a communication device 416, according to some embodiments.The method 500 can generally involve connecting to a communicationdevice 416 and receiving a notification of an event from thecommunication device 416. The security system 202 can react based on theevent from the communication system. The method 500 begins at block 510.

In block 510, the security system 202 can establish a connection withthe communication system. As mentioned herein, the communication device416 may utilize either a wired or wireless connection 230 to communicatewith the security system 202. For example, a wireless home network thatutilizes Wi-Fi may be used or local Bluetooth™ pairing may be used. Onceconnection is established, then the communication device 416 may beconfigured to only communicate with security system 202 at the IDprovided by the security system 202. For example, the security system202 may have a unique IPv6 address that the communication device 416transmits to. The communication device 416 may also have a unique IPv6address that the security system 202 transmits to. The security system202 may also be configured to receive alerts from only the IPv6 addressthat belongs to the communication device 416, thus preventing spoofingtype alarms. Various permissions may be set up using an ApplicationProgramming Interface (API) of the communication device 416. Forexample, the security system 202 can be set up as a client withread/write permissions which identifies the security system 202 that haspermission to share data with the communication device 416.

In block 512, the security system 202 may monitor for an event. Inembodiments, the security system 202 monitors for an event from thecommunication device 416. For example, the communication device 416 mayreceive a notification of an event from an event detection device 418.In embodiments, the security system 202 can monitor for an event usinglocalized components. For example, the security system 202 may have acamera that is used to monitor for suspicious activity. The event may becommunicated with the communication device 416 and the communicationdevice 416 may take appropriate action (e.g., notify emergencyservices). As mentioned herein, the types of events may be selected fromat least one of a fire, a gas leak, a break-in, elevated levels ofsmoke, elevated levels of radon, elevated levels of carbon monoxide, andthe like.

The event detection device 418 may detect an event using a variety ofmethods. For example, various thresholds may be employed to detect anevent 424. For example, the elevated levels of smoke event 434 can bebased off of optical obscuration or electrostatic precipitation. Thesmoke can be based off of a threshold of parts per million or percentageof optical transmittance. The radon event 432 can be based off ofPicoCuries per Liter reading from a radon detection unit. The gas leakevent 428 can be based off of an 80% Lower Explosive Limit. Various gasdetectors can be used (e.g., electrochemical, infrared point, infraredimaging, semiconductor, ultrasonic, holographic, etc.). A fire event 426may be detected using temperature or a combination of readings from asmoke event 434 and a carbon monoxide event 430. The break-in event 436may utilize various sensors present in the security system 202 orexternal sensors to the security system 202 (e.g., motion sensors). Theevent 424 is associated with a home (i.e., building 300), and thedoorbell (i.e., security system 202) is attached to the home of ahomeowner.

In block 514, the security system 202 can determine whether an event hasbeen initiated. The event may be initiated whenever the security system202 receives a transmission from a communication device 416communicatively coupled to the security system. The transmission may beover various forms of communication and provide an indication that theevent has been initiated. The security system 202 may monitor thecommunication system to detect whether the event has been initiated. Inembodiments, the security system 202 (e.g., the doorbell) can interfacewith a remote computing device 204 to further communicate to an occupantthat there is an alert at the home. Communicating via the remotecomputing device 204 may have the benefit of keeping occupants informedwhile away from the home. The security device 202 can establish acommunication session with a remote computing device 204 in a similarmanner as to the communication device 416. The communication session mayinclude an indication that the event that has been initiated. Forexample, an occupant can receive a communication of a fire alert on alocal application on their remote computing device 204 from the securitysystem 202.

In block 516, the security system 202 can determine the alarm type. Inembodiments, block 516 may be optional. Despite a variety of devicesavailable to the security system 202, not all devices or tools may beappropriate in certain settings. For example, a non-urgent alert (suchas elevated radon levels) may not warrant a high-pitched, high-volumenoise in the middle of the night. The security system 202 can balancethe severity of the alert with the certainty for the alert. For example,significant amounts of dust can trigger a smoke detector but thecertainty of a fire can be determined using a carbon monoxide detectorin conjunction with the smoke detector. The severity of a fire may behigh but if the certainty that a fire is occurring is low, then thesecurity system 202 can determine that another alarm type is moreappropriate. Examples of determining an alarm type are described furtherherein.

In block 518, the security system 202 can activate the alertcommunication system 402 in response to determining that the event hasbeen initiated in block 514. In embodiments, activating the alertcommunication system 402 can include activating selected components ofthe alert communication system 402 (e.g., the speaker 404 or the light406). As mentioned herein, the alert communication system 402 caninclude a light 406 which, when the alert communication system 402 isactivated, can cause the light 406 to illuminate in a variety ofpatterns and colors. The alert communication system 402 can also includea speaker 404 that emits a sound in a variety of intensities,frequencies, and patterns. The activating can also include activating acontrol element for the alert communication system 402. The controlelement for the alert communication system 402 can instigate a varietyof patterns and alerts for multiple components (e.g., a flashing lightfollowed by emission of selected sound frequencies).

In block 520, once the alert communication system 402 is activated, thesecurity system 202 can monitor for a command to deactivate the alertcommunication system 402. In embodiments, block 520 may be optional. Forexample, a user of the security system 202 may not desire the securitysystem 202 to alert occupants (e.g., a false positive). The command canbe a sequence of instructions that is understood by the security system202 to deactivate the alert communication system 402. In embodiments,the command can be a button press and an audible predetermined message.For example, an occupant can push a button (e.g., the door bell button220) and speak an audible predetermined message such as “AlarmDeactivate” to deactivate the alert communication system 402. In variousembodiments, the deactivation unit 411 can be configured to performvocal recognition in order to distinguish between the voice of theoccupant with the voice of a non-occupant, such as a prowler. Once thecommand is received, then the method 500 can continue to operation 522.

In block 522, the security system 202 can deactivate the alertcommunication system 402 in response to receiving the command todeactivate the alert communication system. The alert communicationsystem 402 may be deactivated in a variety of ways. For example, thealert communication system 402 may deactivate (e.g. turn off the currentalert) in response to the security system 202 receiving an indicationthat the doorbell button 212 has been pressed. In some embodiments, thesecurity system 202 may be configured to turn off the alertcommunication system 402 in response to receiving an audiblepredetermined message, such as a spoken safety message or a spokenpassword that indicates that the event is being attended to or hasended. In some embodiments, the security system 202 can receive adeactivation command from the remote computing device 204. In thismanner, the individual operating the remote computing device 204 maysend a command through the remote computing device 204 to terminate theongoing alert. The deactivation of the alert communication system 402can include selectively deactivating less than all of the components ofthe alert communication system 402. For example, the deactivating of thealert communication system 402 can include deactivating only thelocalized communication (i.e., the speaker 404 and the light 406) butnot the remote communication 407 with law enforcement (e.g., a silentalarm).

FIG. 14 illustrates an example table 600 of various alarm types that areused based on the certainty and severity of the event, according to someembodiments. The table 600 can correspond to block 516 in FIG. 13 wherea security system 202 can determine the alarm type. In embodiments, thealarm type may be pre-assigned depending on the certainty and theseverity of the event. For example, an occupant may desire that a gasleak is always associated with an audible alarm and a red light, despitea low certainty.

The alarm type can also be based on threshold values. For example, ifthe certainty of a fire is 20% but the severity is high, the securitysystem 202 can create a score that is based on the severity and thecertainty. The security system 202, based on the score, can determinethe type of alarm. For example, a high severity event with a lowcertainty may (such as the fire) may be associated with a sound toinvite an occupant to investigate further. A high severity event such asa gas leak but with a higher certainty may trigger a red flash alongwith the sound. A low severity event such as a baby crying can trigger adifferent set of alarm types such as playing comforting music.

Customized Sound Embodiments

The security system 202, or doorbell 202, may be configured to receive acustom sound(s) from a user and thereby emit the custom sound inresponse to a particular situation(s). For example, as illustrated inFIG. 15, a doorbell system 200 may receive a custom message (at step1500). A user of the system may then optionally assign the custommessage to a select visitor (at step 1502). Thereby when an indicationof a presence of the select visitor is detected by the doorbell 202 (atstep 1504), the doorbell 202 may then respond by emitting the custommessage with a speaker 404, 488 of the doorbell 202 (at step 1506). Itshould be appreciated that the term “detecting” may be defined asdiscovering or identifying the presence or existence of a visitor. Assuch, the term “detecting” may be used interchangeably with the term“determining.”

The custom sound, or custom message, may be received by the doorbellsystem 200 in a variety of ways. As shown in FIG. 16, the doorbellsystem 200 may download the custom message from a remote computer, suchas a remote computing device (e.g. a smart phone) (at step 1600). Aswell, the doorbell system 200 may record the custom message (at step1602). For example, a user of the doorbell system 200 may record thecustom message on his or her remote computing device, such as a smartphone, (at step 1602) and then download the custom message from thesmart phone onto the doorbell system 200. In some embodiments, thecustom message may be directly recorded by the doorbell 202 (at step1602), such as recorded by a microphone of the doorbell 202. Generally,it should be appreciated that the custom message may be recorded by anytype of recording device that is communicatively coupled to the doorbellsystem 200 (at step 1602). In this manner, the doorbell system 200 maydownload the custom message from the recording device.

As further illustrated in FIG. 16, any number of custom messages may berecorded and/or downloaded by the doorbell system 200. For example, thedoorbell system may record and/or download a second custom message (atstep 1604), a third custom message, a fourth custom message, and anynumber of additional custom messages.

The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to interact with avisitor whereby the doorbell system 200 gives and receives audibleinformation. In this manner, the doorbell system 200 may interpretinformation from the visitor. With reference to FIG. 17, the doorbellsystem 200 (e.g. a speaker 404, 488 of the the doorbell 202) may beconfigured to emit an audible question(s) (at step 1700). The doorbellsystem 200 (e.g. via a microphone of the doorbell 202) may then receivean audible response from the visitor (at step 1702). The doorbell system200 may thereby determine the meaning of the audible response given bythe visitor. For example, the doorbell system 200 may determine whetherthe audible response comprises a first meaning or a second meaning (atstep 1704). For example, if the doorbell system 200 determines that theaudible response comprises the first meaning, the doorbell 202 may thenemit a first audible response, via the speaker 404, 488, (at step 1706).As well, if the doorbell system 200 determines that the audible responsecomprises the second meaning, the doorbell 202 may then emit a secondaudible response, via the speaker 404, 488, (at step 1708). In thismanner, the doorbell system 200 may be a smart system that is able tointerpret and respond to different responses given by the visitor.

The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to intiate acommunication session with a remote computing device 204, such as aremote computing device 204 associated with the visitor and/or a user ofthe doorbell system 200 (e.g. a resident of the building 300). Forexample, the doorbell system 200 may detect an indication of a presenceof a visitor (at step 1800). The doorbell system 200 may then initiate acommunication session with the remote computing device of the visitorand/or the resident (at step 1802). The communication session maycomprise any type of communication and/or transmission to the remotecomputing device, such as a text message, phone call, voicemail, email,and the like. For example, the communication session may comprise awritten message that substantially matches a content of the custommessage as emitted by the speaker 404, 488. In this manner, hearingimpaired visitors may be able to receive the message.

Furthermore, in some embodiments, the doorbell system 200 may beconfigured to determine an identity of a first visitor and/or a secondvisitor. Accordingly, the doorbell system 200 may intiate acommunication session, such as transmit a text message, to a remotecomputing device 204 that includes at least one of the identity of thefirst visitor and/or the identity of the second visitor. Generally, itshould be appreciated that the communication session may include anytype of information relating to the visitor and/or the visitor'spresence at the doorbell 200.

The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to detect various typesof visitors. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 19, thedoorbell system 200 may be referred to as a first doorbell system 200 a,which may be configured to detect an indication of a presence of acriminal (at step 1900). The first doorbell system 200 a may detect theindication of the presence of a visitor, such as a criminal, byreceiving a notification from a second doorbell sysem 200 b that iscommunicatively coupled to the first doorbell system 200 a and remotelylocated with respect to the first doorbell system 200 a. For example,the second doorbell system 200 b may determine that a criminal is in thearea and then alert all other doorbell systems 200 located within thevicinity, including the first doorbell system 200 a.

With reference to FIG. 19, in response to the doorbell 202 and/ordoorbell system 200 detecting the indication of the presence of thecriminal, the doorbell 202 may emit a warning message with a speaker404, 488 of the doorbell 202 (at step 1902). The doorbell system 200 maythen initiate a communication session with a law enforcement agency tonotify the agency of the presence of the criminal (at step 1904). Itshould be appreciated that the warning message may include a message toscare away the criminal and/or inform the criminal that the lawenforcement agency has been contacted.

As shown in FIG. 20, the doorbell system 200 may also be configured toidentify a visitor, such as a criminal or suspicious person, by taking apicture of the visitor (at step 2000). The doorbell system 200 may thendetermine, based on the picture, that the visitor is included in adatabase of suspicious visitors, such as a database of criminals, thatpreviously visited other doorbells 202 (at step 2002). The doorbellsystem 200, and/or a remote computer, may use facial recognitionsoftware to match the facial data of the criminal with facial data froma law enforcement database. As well, the doorbell system 200 may detectthe indication of the presence of the criminal by detecting bodylanguage of the criminal, such as detecting evasive or suspicious moves,detecting a fingerprint of the criminal, detecting a retina of thecriminal, and the like.

As well, the doorbell system 200 may be configured to determine varioustypes of visitors. As shown in FIG. 21, for example, the doorbell system200 may determine that a visitor is a predetermined visitor type (atstep 2100). The predetermined visitor type may comprise any type ofvisitor, such as a known visitor (e.g. a friend, a family member, and/oranyone included on a smart phone contact list of a user), a knownvisitor, a suspicious visitor, a criminal, and the like. In response todetermining that the visitor is the predetermined visitor type, thedoorbell system 200, via the doorbell 202, can select a custom messagefrom a first message and a second message (at step 2102). In response todetermining that the visitor is a known person, the doorbell system 200may emit the first message (at step 2104). In some embodiments, thefirst message optionally includes a name of the known person. Forexample, the doorbell system 200 may determine that a known person namedTim, who is a friend of the resident, is present. Accordingly, thedoorbell 202 may audibly announce, “Welcome, Tim.”

Likewise, in response to determining that the visitor is a stranger, thedoorbell 202 may emit the second message (at step 2106). For example, ifthe doorbell system 200 determines that the stranger is a solicitor, thedoorbell 202 may emit an audible message informing the solicitor thatthe resident does not purchase items from solicitors, an apology, and aninvitation to exit the premise. Generally, it should be appreciated thatthe doorbell system 200 may be configured to determine any type ofvisitor and emit any type of custom message in response to the type ofvisitor.

The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to emit custom messagesin response to the occurrence of predetermined conditions. Asillustrated in FIG. 22, the doorbell system 200 may detect an indicationof a presence of a visitor (at step 2200). The doorbell system 200 maythereby determine that a predetermined condition has occurred (at step2202). For example, the predetermined condition may be a time of day, aperiod of days, such as a time when the resident(s) is on vacation, anevent (e.g. a birthday party, during a football game, etc.), and thelike. Accordingly, in response to the indication of the presence of thevisitor and the occurrence of the predetermined condition, the doorbell202 may thereby emit a custom message (at step 2204). It should beappreciated that the custom message may correspond with the occurrenceof the predetermined condition. For example, if the predeterminedcondition is the occurrence of a game in which the resident's favoritefootball team is competing, then the custom message may be the fightsong for the football team.

The predetermined condition may also be an occurrence when theresident(s) is away from the building 300 or when the resident(s) islocated within the building 300. With specific reference to FIG. 23, thedoorbell system 200 may be configured to record and/or download morethan one custom message, such as a first custom message and/or a secondcustom message, and then emit the respective custom message inparticular situations (at step 2300). Accordingly, the method maythereby include determining whether a resident is located within thebuilding 300 or whether the resident is not located within the building300 (at step 2302). In response to determining that the resident ispresent within the building 300, the doorbell 202 may thereby emit thefirst custom message (at step 2304). For example, the first custommessage may be a message informing the visitor that the resident will beright there, such as, “Please wait a moment. Mr. Banks will be rightthere” (whereby Mr. Banks is the resident). In response to determiningthat the resident is not present within the building, the doorbell 202may thereby emit the second custom message (at step 2306). The secondcustom message may include a message informing the visitor that theresident is busy (if the visitor is a suspicious person—to avoid arobbery) or away from the building 300 (if the visitor is a knownperson). For example, the second custom message may state, “I'm sorry.Mr. Banks is currently occupied. Please come back another time.”

The doorbell system 200, via the doorbell 202, may be configured toreceive the custom message in response to a variety of inputs asreceived by the doorbell system 200. For example, as shown by FIG. 24,the doorbell 202 may receive an indication of a first button press froma button 212 of the doorbell 202 (at step 2400). In response toreceiving the first button press, the doorbell 202 may thereby recordthe custom message and store the custom message within a memory of thedoorbell system 200 (at step 2402). As well, the doorbell system 200 maybe configured to receive an input, such as receive an indication of asecond button press from the doorbell 202 (at step 2404). In response toreceiving the second button press, the doorbell system 200 can therebyerase the custom message from the memory of the doorbell system 200 (atstep 2406).

It should be appreciated that any reference to first button press,second button press, and the like, can refer to any number of buttonpresses or duration of respective button presses. For example, the firstbutton press can comprise two button presses and the second button presscan comprise one button press. As well, the first button press cancomprise one button press and the second button press can comprise twobutton presses. In some embodiments, the first button press can comprisethe button 212 being pressed for a first duration and the second buttonpress can comprise the button 212 being pressed for a second duration.It should be appreciated that the first duration can be greater than,equal to, or less than the second duration.

However, it should be appreciated that the inputs may be any type ofinputs into the doorbell system 200. For example, in conjunction orinstead of a first and second button press, the doorbell system 200 maybe configured to receive various motions from the user. In someembodiments, the camera 208 of the doorbell 202 may detect a firstmotion from the user, such as the user waving a hand once. In responseto detecting the first motion, the doorbell 202 may thereby record thecustom message and store the custom message within a memory of thedoorbell system 200. As well, the camera 208 may detect a second motionfrom the user, such as the user waving a hand twice. In response todetecting the second motion, the doorbell 202 may thereby erase thecustom message from the memory of the doorbell system 200. Generally, itshould be appreciated that any type of input, such as a bodily motion,may be received by the doorbell system 200.

The doorbell system 200 may also be configured to provide security andanonymity to a user of the doorbell system 200. For example, as shown inFIG. 25, the doorbell system 200 may record and/or download a firstcustom message (at step 2500). The first custom message may be spoken bya first voice. The doorbell system 200 may be configured to effectivelyconvert the first message into a second message, whereby the secondmessage is spoken by a second voice that is different from the firstvoice. The content of the first custom message can substantially matchthe content of the second custom message. As such, the doorbell system200 may emit the second custom message (at step 2502) that is spoken bythe second voice. In this manner, the doorbell system 200 mayeffectively protect the identity of the user (e.g. resident) of thedoorbell system 200.

With respect to the various predetermined conditions, as shown in FIG.26, the doorbell system 200 may create a schedule of a first timeframeto emit a first sound, a second timeframe to emit a second sound, and athird timeframe to emit a third sound (at step 2600). The doorbellsystem 200 may thereby determine that a visitation time of the visitoris within the first timeframe (at step 2602), and in response todetermining that the visitation time of the visitor is within the firsttimeframe, the doorbell 202 may emit the first sound (at step 2604).Accordingly, if the doorbell system 200 determines that the visitationtime of the visitor is within the second timeframe, the doorbell 202 mayemit the second sound. Likewise, if the doorbell system 200 determinesthat the visitation time of the visitor is within the third timeframe,the doorbell 202 may emit the third sound.

For example, the first timeframe might include overnight and morninghours when the resident is either sleeping or getting ready for work.The first sound may thereby inform a visitor that the resident is busyand that the visitor should come back another time. As well, the secondtimeframe might include daytime hours, when the resident is away atwork. The second sound might include a message that the resident is notavailable and that the visitor can reach the resident at work or on theresident's smart phone, if the visitor is a known or trusted visitor.Finally, the third timeframe might include a time during evening hourswhen the resident is home from work. The third sound may thereby informthe visitor that the resident will answer the door shortly. Generally,it should be appreciated that the doorbell system 200 may be configuredto accommodate any timeframe or number of timeframes. As well, thedoorbell system 200 may be configured to receive and thereby emit anysound in response to any of the respective timeframes.

With reference to FIG. 27, the doorbell system 200 may be configured toreceive any number of custom messages and then emit respective messagesin response to the doorbell system 200 (e.g. the doorbell 202) detectingan indication of a presence of any number of respective visitors. Thedoorbell 202 may emit a first custom audible message with a speaker 404,488 in response to the doorbell system 200 detecting an indication of apresence of a first visitor (at step 2700). As well, the doorbell 202may emit a second custom audible message with the speaker 404, 488 inresponse to the doorbell system 200 detecting an indication of apresence of a second visitor (at step 2702). Likewise, the doorbell 202may emit a third custom audible message with the speaker 404, 488 inresponse to the doorbell system 200 detecting an indication of apresence of a third visitor (at step 2704).

The first, second and third custom audible messages can be assigned tospecific visitors or groups of visitors. For example, the first customaudible message may be assigned to a specific first visitor. As well,the first custom audible message may be assigned to a specific group ortype of visitor, such as any known visitor.

As shown in FIG. 28, the doorbell system 200 may be referred to as afirst doorbell system 200 a that is attached to a first building 300 a.The first doorbell system 200 a may be communicatively coupled to asecond doorbell system 200 b that is attached to an exterior of a secondbuilding 300 b that is remotely located with respect to the firstbuilding 300 a. Accordingly, the first doorbell 202 a may also becommunicatively coupled to the second doorbell 202 b. Thereby, the firstdoorbell system 202 a may detect an indication of a presence of a firstvisitor by receiving a first notification from the second doorbellsystem 202 b (at step 2800). As well, the first doorbell system 202 amay detect an indication of a presence of a second visitor by receivinga second notification from the second doorbell system 202 b (at step2802). In this manner, the first doorbell system 202 a and the seconddoorbell system 202 b may be networked. This may allow doorbell systems200 that are located within a specific area, such as a neighborhood, tocommunicate and transmit data to each other. The network of doorbellsystems may exchange information and/or data to thereby monitor theentire neighborhood.

Interpretation

None of the steps described herein is essential or indispensable. Any ofthe steps can be adjusted or modified. Other or additional steps can beused. Any portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/ordevices disclosed or illustrated in one embodiment, flowchart, orexample in this specification can be combined or used with or instead ofany other portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/ordevices disclosed or illustrated in a different embodiment, flowchart,or example. The embodiments and examples provided herein are notintended to be discrete and separate from each other.

The section headings and subheadings provided herein are nonlimiting.The section headings and subheadings do not represent or limit the fullscope of the embodiments described in the sections to which the headingsand subheadings pertain. For example, a section titled “Topic 1” mayinclude embodiments that do not pertain to Topic 1 and embodimentsdescribed in other sections may apply to and be combined withembodiments described within the “Topic 1” section.

Some of the devices, systems, embodiments, and processes use computers.Each of the routines, processes, methods, and algorithms described inthe preceding sections may be embodied in, and fully or partiallyautomated by, code modules executed by one or more computers, computerprocessors, or machines configured to execute computer instructions. Thecode modules may be stored on any type of non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium or tangible computer storage device,such as hard drives, solid state memory, flash memory, optical disc,and/or the like. The processes and algorithms may be implementedpartially or wholly in application-specific circuitry. The results ofthe disclosed processes and process steps may be stored, persistently orotherwise, in any type of non-transitory computer storage such as, e.g.,volatile or non-volatile storage.

The various features and processes described above may be usedindependently of one another, or may be combined in various ways. Allpossible combinations and subcombinations are intended to fall withinthe scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain method, event, state,or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods,steps, and processes described herein are also not limited to anyparticular sequence, and the blocks, steps, or states relating theretocan be performed in other sequences that are appropriate. For example,described tasks or events may be performed in an order other than theorder specifically disclosed. Multiple steps may be combined in a singleblock or state. The example tasks or events may be performed in serial,in parallel, or in some other manner. Tasks or events may be added to orremoved from the disclosed example embodiments. The example systems andcomponents described herein may be configured differently thandescribed. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, orrearranged compared to the disclosed example embodiments.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,”“might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically statedotherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, isgenerally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, whileother embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/orsteps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended toimply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required forone or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarilyinclude logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting,whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to beperformed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,”“including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are usedinclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additionalelements, features, acts, operations and so forth. Also, the term “or”is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so thatwhen used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or”means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctivelanguage such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unlessspecifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the contextas used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X,Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended toimply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least oneof Y, and at least one of Z to each be present.

The term “and/or” means that “and” applies to some embodiments and “or”applies to some embodiments. Thus, A, B, and/or C can be replaced withA, B, and C written in one sentence and A, B, or C written in anothersentence. A, B, and/or C means that some embodiments can include A andB, some embodiments can include A and C, some embodiments can include Band C, some embodiments can only include A, some embodiments can includeonly B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodimentsinclude A, B, and C. The term “and/or” is used to avoid unnecessaryredundancy.

While certain example embodiments have been described, these embodimentshave been presented by way of example only, and are not intended tolimit the scope of the inventions disclosed herein. Thus, nothing in theforegoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature,characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable.Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodiedin a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions,substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systemsdescribed herein may be made without departing from the spirit of theinventions disclosed herein.

The following is claimed:
 1. A method for emitting a custom message witha doorbell system, wherein the doorbell system comprises a doorbellhaving a speaker, the method comprising: receiving the custom messagewith the doorbell system; detecting, by the doorbell, an indication of apresence of a visitor, and then in response to detecting the indicationof the presence of the visitor, emitting the custom message with thespeaker, wherein the custom message comprises a warning message and anindication that a resident does not welcome the visitor; and initiating,by the doorbell system, a communication session with a law enforcementagency.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the visitor is a predeterminedvisitor, the method further comprising assigning, by the doorbellsystem, the custom message to the predetermined visitor.
 3. The methodof claim 1, further comprising determining, by the doorbell system, thatthe visitor is a predetermined visitor type, and selecting the custommessage from a first message and a second message in response todetermining that the visitor is the predetermined visitor type.
 4. Themethod of claim 2, further comprising downloading the custom messagefrom a phone communicatively coupled to the doorbell system.
 5. Themethod of claim 2, wherein the doorbell system further comprises aremote computing device, the method further comprising recording thecustom message with the remote computing device.
 6. The method of claim2, wherein the doorbell further comprises a microphone and a button, themethod further comprising receiving an indication of a button press ofthe button, and then in response to receiving the button press,recording the custom message with the microphone.
 7. The method of claim2, wherein the doorbell system is operated by a homeowner and thevisitor is included on a contact list of the homeowner, and wherein thecustom message comprises a name of the visitor, wherein the doorbellcomprises a microphone, and wherein the custom message comprises aquestion, the method further comprising receiving, by the microphone, anaudible response to the question as spoken by the visitor, the methodfurther comprising: determining, by the doorbell system, whether theaudible response spoken by the visitor comprises a first meaning or asecond meaning that is different from the first meaning; in response todetermining that the audible response spoken by the visitor comprisesthe first meaning, emitting a first response message with the speaker;and in response to determining that the audible response spoken by thevisitor comprises the second meaning, emitting a second response messagewith the speaker, wherein the second response message is different fromthe first response message.
 8. The method of claim 2, wherein thevisitor comprises a solicitor and the communication session comprises anidentity of the solicitor.
 9. The method of claim 2, further comprisinginitiating, by the doorbell system, a communication session with aremote computing device of the visitor, wherein the communicationsession comprises a written message that substantially matches a contentof the custom message.
 10. A method for emitting a custom message with adoorbell system, wherein the doorbell system comprises a doorbell havinga speaker, the method comprising: detecting, by the doorbell, anindication of a presence of a visitor, wherein the doorbell is attachedto a building occupied by a resident; and determining, by the doorbellsystem, whether the resident is located within the building and then inresponse to detecting the indication of the presence of the visitor anddetermining that the resident is located within the building, emitting afirst custom message with the speaker.
 11. The method of claim 10,further comprising recording the custom message with the doorbellsystem.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising: recording asecond custom message with the doorbell system, wherein the secondcustom message is different from the first custom message; in responseto both detecting the indication of the presence of the visitor anddetermining the resident is present within the building, emitting thefirst custom message with the speaker; and in response to both detectingthe indication of the presence of the visitor and determining theresident is not present within the building, emitting the second custommessage with the speaker.
 13. The method of claim 10, wherein thedoorbell system further comprises a remote computing device, the methodfurther comprising recording the custom message with the remotecomputing device.
 14. The method of claim 10, wherein the doorbellcomprises a microphone, the method further comprising recording thecustom message with the microphone.
 15. The method of claim 10, whereinthe doorbell further comprises a button, the method further comprising:receiving an indication of a first button press of the button, and thenin response to receiving the first button press, recording the custommessage with the doorbell system and thereby storing the custom messagewithin a memory of the doorbell system; and receiving an indication of asecond button press of the button, and then in response to receiving thesecond button press, erasing the custom message from the memory of thedoorbell system.
 16. The method of claim 10, wherein the first custommessage comprises a welcome message that welcomes the visitor.
 17. Themethod of claim 10, wherein the custom message is a second custommessage, and wherein the doorbell comprises a microphone, the methodfurther comprising: recording a first custom message with themicrophone, wherein the first custom message is spoken by a first voice,wherein the second custom message emitted by the speaker is spoken by asecond voice, and wherein a content of the first custom messagesubstantially matches a content of the second custom message.
 18. Themethod of claim 10, further comprising taking, by the doorbell, apicture of the visitor, wherein determining the occurrence of thepredetermined condition comprises determining, based on the picture,that the visitor is included in a database of suspicious visitors thatpreviously visited other doorbells.
 19. The method of claim 10, furthercomprising: creating a schedule of a first timeframe to emit a firstsound, a second timeframe to emit a second sound, and a third timeframeto emit a third sound; determining, by the doorbell system, that avisitation time of the visitor is within the first timeframe; andemitting, by the speaker, the first sound in response to determiningthat the visitation time of the visitor is within the first timeframe.20. A doorbell system, comprising: a doorbell including a button, aspeaker and a microphone, wherein the doorbell is configurable to attachto an exterior of a building occupied by a resident; and a customaudible message received by the doorbell system and emitted by thespeaker in response to the doorbell system determining that the residentis located within the building.
 21. The doorbell system of claim 20,wherein the custom audible message comprises a name of a select visitor,and wherein the custom audible message is emitted by the speaker inresponse to the doorbell detecting an indication of a presence of theselect visitor.
 22. The doorbell system of claim 20, further comprisinga predetermined audible message emitted by the speaker in response to afirst button press, wherein the custom audible message is received bythe microphone in response to a second button press.
 23. The doorbellsystem of claim 22, wherein the first button press comprises one buttonpress and the second button press comprises two button presses.
 24. Thedoorbell system of claim 22, wherein the first button press comprisesthe button being pressed for a first duration and the second buttonpress comprises the button being pressed for a second duration, andwherein the first duration is less than the second duration.
 25. Thedoorbell system of claim 22, wherein the doorbell further comprises amemory communicatively coupled to the microphone and the speaker,wherein the memory is configurable to store the custom audible messageand the predetermined audible message.
 26. A doorbell system,comprising: a doorbell including a button, a speaker and a microphone,wherein the doorbell is configurable to attach to an exterior of abuilding; and a custom audible message emitted by the speaker inresponse to the doorbell detecting an indication of a presence of asolicitor, wherein the custom audible message comprises an indicationthat a resident of the building does not welcome solicitors, wherein thecustom audible comprises an apology.
 27. The doorbell system of claim26, wherein the custom audible message comprises a first custom audiblemessage and the visitor comprises a first visitor the doorbell systemfurther comprising a second custom audible message emitted by thespeaker in response to the doorbell detecting an indication of apresence of a second visitor.
 28. The doorbell system of claim 27,further comprising: a wireless communication system communicativelycoupled to the doorbell, wherein the wireless communication system isconfigurable to retrieve data from a remote computer; a third customaudible message emitted by the speaker in response to the doorbelldetecting an indication of a presence of a third visitor, wherein thethird custom audible message comprises a first name of the thirdvisitor; and a camera coupled to the doorbell, wherein the camera isconfigurable to capture a facial image of the third visitor, wherein thefirst name of the third visitor is thereby determined through thewireless communication system communicating with the remote computer tomatch facial recognition data from the facial image of the third visitoras captured by the camera with facial recognition data from the facialimage of the third visitor from an online social network.
 29. Thedoorbell system of claim 27, wherein detecting the indication of thepresence of the first visitor comprises determining an identity of thefirst visitor, and wherein detecting the indication of the presence ofthe second visitor comprises determining an identity of the secondvisitor, the doorbell system further comprising: a remote computingdevice communicatively coupled to the doorbell; and a text messagereceived by the remote computing device, wherein the text messagecomprises at least one of the identity of the first visitor and theidentity of the second visitor.
 30. A doorbell system, comprising: adoorbell including a button, a speaker and a microphone, wherein thedoorbell is configurable to attach to an exterior of a building occupiedby a resident; and a custom audible message received by the doorbellsystem and emitted by the speaker in response to the doorbell systemdetermining that the resident is not located within the building. 31.The doorbell system of claim 27, wherein the doorbell system is attachedto a first building and the doorbell system is communicatively coupledto a second doorbell system attached to an exterior of a second buildingthat is remotely located with respect to the first building, whereindetecting the indication of the presence of the first visitor comprisesthe doorbell system receiving a first notification from the seconddoorbell system, and wherein detecting the indication of the presence ofthe second visitor comprises the doorbell system receiving a secondnotification from the second doorbell system.